The impact of a car accident can unleash severe forces on the body, and the spinal cord can bear the brunt of the trauma. This bundle of nerves is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When damaged, the consequences can be severe and life-altering. Make sure to contact an experienced accident lawyer in Bakersfield for legal guidance and support.
Complete versus Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are broadly categorized into two types: complete and incomplete. A complete spinal cord injury results in total loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury. This means no messages can pass between the brain and the body parts below the injury site, leading to paralysis.
Incomplete spinal cord injuries, on the other hand, allow for some degree of function below the injury level. However, this can vary widely from person to person. Some people retain almost all movement and sensation, while others experience only minimal function.
Levels of Spinal Cord Injuries in California
The location of a spinal cord injury impacts its effects on the body. There are four main regions of the spinal cord, each controlling different body parts and functions:
- Sacral Injuries: Located at the base of the spine, these injuries can affect the hip and pelvic organs. While often less severe than higher-level injuries, sacral damage can still cause issues with bowel, bladder, and sexual function.
- Lumbar Injuries: Occurring in the lower back, lumbar injuries can result in paralysis or weakness in the legs. People with lumbar injuries may retain upper body function but require wheelchairs for mobility.
- Thoracic Injuries: These injuries affect the upper chest, mid-back, and abdominal muscles. Thoracic injuries can lead to paraplegia, where the lower body is paralyzed but function is retained in the upper body.
- Cervical Injuries: Cervical injuries occur in the neck region and can result in quadriplegia, the most severe type of spinal cord damage. These injuries can affect all four limbs and torso and even impact breathing, requiring lifelong care and assistance.
Other Types of Spinal Injuries in a Car Accident
While spinal cord injuries are the most severe, other types of spinal damage can also result from car accidents. One of the most common is whiplash, an injury where the head is forcefully thrown backward and then forward. This sudden movement can damage the soft tissues of the neck, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
The force of a car accident can cause the soft discs that separate each vertebra in the spine to push out of place, leading to an injury known as herniated discs. This herniation can irritate nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. The impact of a collision can also fracture vertebrae, leading to instability in the spine and severe pain.
We Can Hold the Person Who Caused Your Car Accident Accountable
Spinal cord injuries from car accidents can have life-altering consequences. Whether you are dealing with partial paralysis, loss of sensation, or chronic pain, you need an injury lawyer in Bakersfield who can understand the full scope of your situation and advocate for your right to compensation.
Rodriguez & Associates has extensive experience representing clients with various spinal cord injuries. We’ll work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need for medical treatments, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Contact us at (661) 777-7575 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.